National dialogue to focus on ‘Rwandanness’

Discussion on how to strengthen the spirit of belonging as nationals in the country is expected to feature prominently in the 11th National Dialogue, better known as Umushyikirano, slated for this week, government officials said.The two-day forum, from Friday, will debate issues relating to the state of the nation, local government, Rwanda Diaspora community and national security.It will run under the theme, “The Rwandan spirit: foundation for sustainable development.”Amb. James Kimonyo, the director of Cabinet in the Office of the Prime Minister, said discussion about Rwandan spirit is in part to ensure inclusivesustainable development of the country.“The dialogue will dwell on Rwanda’s progress and road to economic self-reliance, increased productivity, private sector growth and the role of the youth,” Kimonyo said.“The second day of the meeting will exclusively focus on Rwandan spirit.”He said Rwandan spirit involves fostering love among Rwandans, working together to build the country, protecting the country and fighting for the country.“We are trying to preserve this spirit. This is related to other topics we have been discussing because our unity is critical to our national identity,” he added.The dialogue is a vital platform which enables Rwandans to interact with their leaders by raising issues that impede their social and economic growth.Resolutions from 2012Last year’s dialogue came out with 23 resolutions to be implemented and most of them have been executed thanks to strong partnership between the government, private sector and civil society, according to Kimonyo.“We listed points of action to implement and are glad to say that most of them have been put into action with few that remain to be completed by the end of this year,” he said.Some of the commitments of the previous dialogue which have been implemented are striving for self-reliance whereby Itorero Programme established at village level (Umudugudu) has helped to instill self-reliance values in all villages; and 4,453 teachers’ loan demands were financed above the 3,535 target.Hannington Namara, the chief executive of the Private Sector Federation, said as the journey to self-reliance continues, Rwandans should focus on ideas that will help increase productivity and grow the economy.”Prof. Peter Rwanyindo Ruzirabwoba, the director of Institute of Research and Dialogue for Peace (IRDP), said the national dialogue is unique in a way that every Rwandan is able raise a concern and get an answer directly from the head of state.“Umushyikirano is a journey we must undertake to achieve socio-economic development of our country for future generations. It’s good that this year’s dialogue is focusing on the Rwandan spirit, as people who share the same identity,” he said.Prof. Anastase Shyaka, the chief executive of Rwanda Governance Board, said the essence of national dialogue is inspired by the Rwandan spirit, the same spirit that will enable Rwanda attain its full potential.“Rwandan spirit has been endangered, but now it’s time for us to work together as one big family to preserve our spirit and shape our destiny,” he added.“As a homegrown initiative, Umushyikirano is a strong bond between Rwandan leadership and the community in promoting good governance while ensuring efficient delivery of services for development and prosperity.”Sam Nkusi the chairperson of Liquid Telecom, said the dialogue should also look into ways of supporting Rwanda’s ambitions to become a digital nation because the world is going digital. President Paul Kagame will chair the event.